July-August 2015 | PREPARE TO BE AMAZED

Ocean City’s Planet Maze celebrates 20 years as one of the resort’s memory-making fun centers

Written By: Nick Brandi | Photographer: GRANT L. GURSKY

One of Ocean City’s most popular family-fun spots, Planet Maze, is celebrating an important milestone this year. It was founded 20 years ago by Rina & Jeff Thaler, Jamie & Jeff Albright and Ann & Mike Gordon — any of whom would tell you that like a fine wine, it has only gotten better with age.

“We’ve expanded the operation multiple times over the years,” Rina said. “So I think we’re about 60 percent bigger now than when we opened.”

That translates to roughly 7,500 sq. ft. of 33rd St. real estate at which to have a good time. The interactive-amusement facility features attractions both indoors and out, so family members of all ages can either escape the weather or embrace it according to the conditions and their preferences.

A laser-tag arena has always been a centerpiece of the operation, but it’s one that has evolved continually over the years. “If you want to put it in terms of contemporary terminology, our current LaserTron system represents version 6.0 of the series,” Jamie said, “which is an exciting step forward from the previous generation and the only such system outside the company’s corporate headquarters in Buffalo, NY.”

LaserTron can support from two to 30 players per game. It includes not only the latest high-tech equipment but even a lobby score monitor, which posts both the individual and team results for the players and spectators to enjoy at the end of each session.

The indoor facilities also include a climbing maze for children 2 to 10 years old and an elaborate arcade that lines the entire perimeter of the complex. For those who want to simply kick back and enjoy the festivities, Planet Maze has a spacious lobby area with full spectator views and a snack bar that offers such family favorites as hot dogs, chicken nuggets, pizza, French fries, ice cream, soft drinks and much more.

Outside the complex is Planet Maze’s popular Lost Galaxy miniature golf course. The “out of this world” 18-hole, space-themed course features state-of-the-art special effects, along with caves, crashing meteors, waterfalls, spaceships and even ETs. For nocturnal mini-golf enthusiasts, Lost Galaxy adds fog and mist effects, flaming torches and the red river — just like on your favorite alien planet.

Planet Maze has become increasingly popular for a variety of social events, including bachelor and bachelorette parties, bridal showers, convention-center attendees, athletic leagues and scholastic sports teams, and even New Year’s Eve parties.

To celebrate their 20th anniversary, Planet Maze is inviting visitors to share their wonderful memories past and
present. Submit a photo of fun times had at Planet Maze and receive a “Buy One Game, Get One Game Free” coupon.

There are plenty of opportunities to win great prizes, including one year free admission for up to four people, their photo in a future ad or window display and an iPad sponsored by Comcast Spotlight! Ask a “Planet Mazer” for more details.

Planet Maze is open seven days a week year-round, from 10 a.m. to midnight.